Pacta sunt servanda requires what?

• A. Treaties observed in good faith
• B. Treaties are optional and can be ignored
• C. Domestic law applies exclusively
• D. No treaty obligations exist

Answer: (A)

Treaties must be observed in good faith. Pacta sunt servanda means that once a state consents to a treaty and it comes into force, it is bound to fulfill its obligations as written and to honor the agreement honestly and consistently. This principle provides predictability and trust in international relations, ensuring that commitments are not easily discarded or ignored. Observing in good faith includes carrying out the terms, honoring timelines, and not undermining the purpose of the treaty through evasive or contradictory actions. The idea does not imply that treaties are optional or can be ignored, and it does not claim that domestic law alone determines what happens—many systems implement international obligations domestically, but the international duty to comply remains. It also cannot be read as saying there are no treaty obligations at all.